So I had my braids done for the 1st time ever earlier this week and I'm really happy!

The ends have been sealed using the good old lighter method, only problem I have is that having cut off the excess length the end of the burnt bits is quite sharp and tends to catch on other nearby braids, and is causing damage.

So I was wondering what the experienced people here recommend in terms of other end-sealing methods?

I recommend using a braid sealer. When you get down to the end of the braid, take a tiny bit of hair from one of the sections and wrap it around the bottom. Then clamp the sealer onto it and smooth it out with your fingers once it's cut.